On World Earth Day 2024, environmentalists in Hyderabad emphasized the importance of reducing plastic usage to protect nature. Despite awareness campaigns, the use of single-use plastic bags remains common among shopkeepers and vendors.
Last year, GHMC reported that Hyderabad generates 8,000 metric tonnes of waste daily, with 1,080 metric tonnes being plastic waste. Globally, studies show that 5 trillion pieces of plastic waste accumulate in ocean beds, posing a significant threat to aquatic life.
Environmentalists like K Purushotham Reddy believe that simply banning single-use plastic is not enough. They advocate for a complete ban on plastic manufacturing units to address the issue at its source. However, the lack of government action and continued use of plastic by citizens hinder efforts to reduce plastic waste.
Madhulika Choudhary, another environmental activist, highlights the challenge of finding sufficient sources of plastic for recycling. She suggests innovative solutions like using earthen clay bottles or cups as alternatives to plastic, in order to reduce demand for plastic products.
Efforts to curb plastic pollution are ongoing, with voluntary organizations organizing clean-up drives at water bodies in Hyderabad to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic on the environment.
